Archie Burnett

Archie Burnett is a towering figure in Street Dance history, serving as a "living repository" of New York City’s underground club culture for over 40 years. As a primary ambassador for Waacking, Voguing, and Hustle, he is most recognized as the Grandfather of the Legendary House of Ninja. Alongside his close friend Willi Ninja, Archie was instrumental in bringing these styles from the "sub-underground" of 1980s NYC clubs to international stages and Ivy League lecture halls.

Though Waacking originated in Los Angeles, Archie became the style's East Coast anchor, famously blending West Coast mechanics with the rhythmic footwork of New York House dance. His presence in the community is uniquely significant; as a heterosexual man who was deeply embraced by the LGBTQ+ founders of these styles, he represents a bridge of mutual respect and artistic integrity.

His philosophy centers on the idea that a dancer should not just move to the rhythm, but "become the music" itself.

Archie continues to mentor dancers globally, emphasizing that Street Dance is an academic and spiritual pursuit as much as a physical one. From his starring role in the documentary Check Your Body at the Door to his worldwide workshops, he remains the vital human link between the 1970s club pioneers and the modern global street dance community.